JUNIOR Cert results day is a “milestone” that deserves to be marked, says principal of Newcastle West’s Desmond College, Vourneen Gavin Barry.

The principal was speaking after 68 beaming students opened up their envelopes in the west Limerick school this Wednesday morning (12th September) shortly after 10am.

“It’s been a wonderful morning,” said Ms Gavin Barry. “They came in with their parents, so the families got to meet the teachers and celebrate the occasion together.” The principal said that although it is “a low-stakes exam”, for the pupils, it’s the most important thing in their lives when they’re doing it.

“We had a bit of a celebration at the school because it’s important to mark it. It is a milestone in their lives and their education.”

“The students went home with their families after getting the results and we have them back in school tomorrow. We had nanas and granddads and parents in, and they all go home together afterwards. That encourages responsible behaviour in their celebrations as well – it should be a family occasion,” said Ms Gavin Barry.

And the school had plenty to celebrate.

“We had lovely results. Lots of As, and we had a couple of students with all As. We noticed that the English results were particularly strong, with lots of distinctions and merit. We have a very happy English department. Maths was also very positive. We are very happy,” said the Newcastle West principal.